FAQs

What is a notary public?

A notary public has the power to witness oaths, solemn affirmations, the signing of affidavits or statutory declarations. A notary public may also certify documents to be true copies of the original. In Ontario, notaries derive their power from the following provision of the Notaries Act: "[a] notary public has and may use and exercise the power of drawing, passing, keeping and issuing all deeds and contracts, charter-parties and other mercantile transactions in Ontario, and also of attesting all commercial instruments that may be brought before him or her for public protestation, and otherwise of acting as is usual in the office of notary public…". The Government of Ontario maintains records and a list of all individuals who are authorized as notaries public. 

What is a notary seal? 

This is the seal affixed by a notary to the documents he or she notarizes. The seal and signature of every notary is registered with Province of Ontario. 

What qualifications must a notary public have? 

All barristers and solicitors in Ontario qualify as notaries public. Under the Ontario Notaries Act, the Attorney General may also appoint such persons as he or she thinks fit as notaries public for Ontario. 

What is an affidavit? 

An affidavit is a document setting out a statement that a person (the deponent) swears to be true and correct. 

What is a certified copy? 

This is a photocopy of an original document that has been certified by a notary public to be a true and accurate copy of the original document by affixing a signature, seal and statement to that effect on the copy. 

What is a statutory declaration? 

A statutory declaration is a solemn declaration authorized by the Canada Evidence Act or the Ontario Evidence Act and is used to assert the truth of any fact or facts or of any account rendered in writing. Some of the most common are statutory declarations confirming identity, birth, marital status, or that a document has been lost or stolen. 

What must I bring to my appointment? 

Photo identification bearing signature (e.g. driver’s licence, health card, passport). For certified copies, please bring the original document. 

Will my personal information remain private?

Absolutely. We treat all the information we obtain from you with the strictest confidence. Your personal information will not be disclosed in any manner to anyone.